Industrialized green envelope with BIPV for Real Estate Developers
Real estate developers need to asset value, improve sustainability credentials, and ensure compliance with green certifications of their buildings.
Industrialised deep renovation can bring several financial gains, to real estate developers, such as:
- increased building value by improving the buildings performance and efficiency, while upgrading the aesthetics and comfort
- faster return on investment thanks to streamlined on-site assembly
- reduction of financial exposure due to less uncertainty in project outcomes and costs
- scalability due to the replication of the design and process across multiple buildings
The product
The Industrialized Passive and Green Envelope with Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV) and Adaptable Building Management System (aBMS) aligns the need to enhance energy efficiency and improve the building aesthetics, while meeting the growing demand for high sustainability standards.
The solution features:
- built-in solar panels (BIPV) that generate clean electricity while blending with the building's design.
- The envelope maintains comfortable indoor temperatures year-round, reducing the need for heating and cooling
- The Green envelope incorporates vegetation and green spaces into the building's exterior. This not only enhances the building's aspect and environmental footprint but also creates a healthier and more pleasant environment for occupants.
- The Adaptable Building Management System (aBMS) offers the manager a real-time monitoring and control over various building systems, maximizing the efficiency and minimizing costs.
Value proposition
Property value increase
This factor plays a pivotal role, however, the additional value can differ substantially based on factors such as location, market demand, and the unique features of each property.
Minimal energy use
Green roofs offer insulation that lessens reliance on heating and cooling systems. Generating renewable energy onsite also cuts dependence on traditional power sources and lowers energy costs. Reduced energy use can make a property more appealing to buyers or tenants.
Improved indoor comfort
Green roofs provide acoustic insulation, effectively reducing noise pollution. This is especially advantageous for properties in cities or near major infrastructure.
Better architectural quality
Green envelopes enhance the visual appeal of buildings, especially in dense areas with limited green space. They create a calming atmosphere and can increase property desirability and value.
Lower emissions and environmental impact
Green roofs reduce carbon dioxide, manage stormwater, and support biodiversity. Eco-friendly features are most valued in premium markets.
Better financial and insurance conditions
Where regulatory incentives exist, properties with green features may receive tax benefits like credits, grants, or faster permit processing. Owners can gain financially by utilising these programs.
Green certifications
They can attract environmentally conscious buyers and tenants; however they require adherence to specific standards in energy efficiency, water usage, and overall environmental impact.
Volumetric Extensions for Existing Roofs
Volumetric extensions involve adding modular prefabricated spaces to an existing building, either by extending vertically with rooftop additions or horizontally with protrusions. These extensions can incorporate green façades, BIPV, ventilation systems, and industrialized envelope kits.
This approach increases usable floor space and property value while aligning with sustainability and decarbonisation goals. For Real Estate Funds, this solution offers new revenue streams through space densification, premium rents, and environmental stewardship.
The advantages:
- Volumetric extensions modernise buildings and add spaces like rooftop apartments or offices with strong rental or sales prospects. In dense cities, such extensions can boost property values by 10–25%, especially when paired with green features or PV systems.
- Green roofs and walls on volumetric extensions help lower urban heat island effects, offer extra insulation, and reduce emissions while improving microclimates.
- Sustainable projects that incorporate regenerative design principles are becoming more important. This is particularly evident in flagship developments, supporting efforts to achieve LEED or BREEAM certification under EU taxonomy standards.
The INFINITE Slovenian demo shows that offsite renovation and roof raising are great alternatives to traditional retrofits. The volumetric extension integrates green envelopes, ventilation, BIPV technology, and façade insulation.
Benefits include:
- Reduced operational costs via energy-efficient modules
- Faster construction
- Minimal disruption using plug-and-play design.
| Aspect | Traditional extension | Green offsite extension |
|---|---|---|
| Design and permits |
Custom-designer, high engineering load |
Modular, pre-approved lower effort |
| Construction time | 8-12 months (average) |
4-6 weeks offsite, 1-2 weekd onsite |
| Energy efficiency |
Often neglected or passive only |
Passive + active BIPV systems |
| Design and permits | Medium (related to additional floor area) |
High, dual functional (green + usable) |
| Design and permits | High (tenant relocation often needed) | Medium (non-invasive installation) |
Interested in knowing more about this business model?
Read the report Stakeholder-centred value propositions and business models.
